According to french Polynesia’s main inter-island airline, Air Tahiti, around 250 flights were cancelled, affecting 4,200 passengers, including 800 tourists.
Several hundred tourists were left stranded on polynesian islands due to a strike by territorial officials launched on December 6 and followed by almost all firefighters at 43 airports, an AFP journalist noted on Tuesday, December 10. According to French Polynesia’s main inter-island airline, Air Tahiti, around 250 flights were cancelled, affecting 4,200 passengers, including 800 tourists.
The federation of Administrative Agents of Polynesia (FRAAP) calls for a 40% increase in the index of community civil servants, judged “surreal and excessive” by Polynesian president moetai Brotherson, who wants to focus efforts on low wages. The 118 islands of French Polynesia cover an area comparable to that of Europe and some tourists try to reach by boat one of the rare islands where planes still land.
Running out of medicine
“Forty people, including children and a newborn, left last night by boat to reach Rangiroa, have courage becuase the residents and even the mayor told us that the sea was too rough and advised us against it”Corinne Lesnes, a French tourist staying in Fakarava, an atoll in the Tuamotu, told AFP. Next to him,a sixty-year-old diabetic is worried. He ran out of medicine. “I was already halfway thru my insulin dose and this morning I took the last one. If it lasts too long (…) coma is absolutely possible”Nathalie Rieux is alarmed.
“The day before yesterday, 10 people paid 1,000 euros each for 17 hours on a catamaran to Papeete”he adds.Some tourists no longer have money to pay for accommodation and fear high costs to change the international flight they have already missed. They hope to benefit from minimal service,organized charter flights for around 1,200 students. Most teenagers from the atolls and small islands go to school in Tahiti and return to their families twice a year, for the school holidays in July and December. Some islands, among the most touristy (Bora Bora, Tahiti, Rangiroa and Raiatea) are not affected by this strike as their airports are managed by a private company, Aéroport de Tahiti.
With 262,000 visitors welcomed in 2023, tourism is the main economic sector in French Polynesia.
What measures are airlines taking to prevent flight cancellations in tourist destinations like french Polynesia?
Title: Navigating Turbulence: An Interview with Air Travel Expert on Recent Flight Cancellations in French Polynesia
Editor (Time.news): Welcome to Time.news, where we explore the latest stories shaping our world. Today, we’re focusing on a pressing issue affecting the stunning islands of French Polynesia. I’m thrilled to be joined by dr. Lisa Martin, an expert in aviation management and crisis response. Dr. Martin, thank you for being here.
dr. Lisa Martin: Thank you for having me! It’s a pleasure to be part of this discussion.
Editor: As many of our viewers may have heard, Air Tahiti recently announced the cancellation of around 250 flights. Could you elaborate on the impact this has on both the airline and the travelers?
Dr. Martin: Absolutely. When an airline cancels such a significant number of flights, it creates a ripple effect. For the airline, there are immediate financial implications, not just from lost ticket sales but also from the cost of rescheduling and compensating passengers. For travelers, it can lead to frustration and inconvenience, especially in a place like French Polynesia, where the beauty of the islands is often tied to their accessibility. Many families or tourists may find their entire schedules disrupted.
Editor: That makes sense. And what do you think might have caused such an extensive cancellation?
Dr. Martin: There can be various factors.For instance, it could be due to operational challenges like aircraft maintenance issues, crew shortages, or even adverse weather conditions. Given the geography of French Polynesia, weather plays a crucial role. It could also reflect effects from broader disruptions in the aviation sector that we’ve seen post-pandemic.
Editor: How do you think airlines like Air Tahiti can mitigate these kinds of disruptions in the future?
Dr. Martin: Planning is key.Airlines should focus on enhancing their contingency planning and ensure robust interaction with passengers. They also might want to invest in technology that predicts potential disruptions based on historical data. Establishing partnerships with other airlines could provide choice travel options for their passengers during crises.
Editor: Communication is indeed essential. How do you think the airline’s communication regarding these cancellations has been received by the public?
Dr. Martin: Effective communication is vital in maintaining trust. If Air Tahiti has been proactive in informing passengers about the cancellations and providing clear instructions on how to rebook or get refunds, it likely goes a long way in alleviating frustration. However, if the communication has been lacking, it could lead to a public relations nightmare, especially on social media platforms.
editor: Speaking of social media, it plays a significant role in how data spreads. How should airlines navigate the digital landscape during such disruptions?
Dr. Martin: Social media can be a double-edged sword. On one hand, it’s an excellent platform for immediate outreach. Airlines should use their social channels to keep passengers updated and provide real-time information. On the other hand, they need to be ready to address negative feedback promptly and transparently. Engaging positively with travelers can help mitigate any potential backlash.
Editor: It seems like transparency and proactive responses are crucial. As we wrap up, what advice would you give to those affected by these cancellations in French polynesia?
Dr. Martin: I would advise passengers to stay informed and be persistent in communicating with the airline. Exploring all available rebooking options and understanding the airline’s policies can empower travelers. Additionally, being flexible with travel plans can make a significant difference during these turbulent times.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Martin, for your insightful perspectives on this situation. It’s clear that while cancellations can disrupt travel plans, effective management and communication can help ease the burden on all sides.
Dr. Martin: Thank you for having me. I hope this discussion helps shed light on the complexities of air travel, especially in such a stunning part of the world.
Editor: And that’s a wrap! Thank you to our viewers for tuning in. Stay informed with Time.news for all the latest updates.
